Vanuatu Weather in December

December brings the height of tropical summer to Vanuatu, with daytime highs averaging around 29°C (84.2°F) and nighttime lows settling near 22°C (71.6°F).

Humidity is moderate to high, creating that classic island warmth, but a refreshing dip in the ocean keeps things perfectly comfortable.

Temperatures Across Vanuatu

• Efate (Port Vila) – The average high temperature is around 30°C (86°F), with an average low of 23°C (73.4°F).
• Espiritu Santo – The average high temperature is around 31°C (87.8°F), with an average low of 24°C (75.2°F).
• Malekula – The average high temperature is around 30°C (86°F), with an average low of 24°C (75°F).
• Tanna – The average high temperature is around 29°C (84.2°F), with an average low of 22°C (71.6°F).
• Banks Islands & Torres – The average high temperature is around 30°C (86°F), with an average low of 24°C (75°F).

Sea Temperature in December

The waters around Vanuatu remain inviting year-round, and December is no exception. Sea temperatures typically hover around 27°C (80.6°F), ideal for snorkelling, swimming, kayaking or simply floating beneath the tropical sun.

December delivers plenty of sunshine in Vanuatu, with long, warm days perfect for outdoor activities. Expect around 13 hours of daylight and roughly 8 hours of bright sun each day, making it ideal for early morning hikes, beach sessions, or exploring the islands before midday heat.

UV Levels During December

UV levels in Vanuatu peak in December, typically reaching 11+, classified as extreme. Sunscreen is essential, apply a high-SPF, reef-safe formula regularly, especially after swimming. Lightweight, UV-protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat are also recommended for added protection.

See The Best Sunscreens for Vanuatu + Sun Protection Tips.

Sunrise and Sunset During December

December in Vanuatu offers balanced daylight hours:

• Sunrise: Around 5:10 am at the start of the month, shifting to about 5:22 am by month's end
• Sunset: Around 6:11 pm at the beginning, extending to roughly 6:26 pm by the end of December

December is the peak of the wet season in Vanuatu. Rain becomes more frequent, with about 15 days of rainfall throughout the month. While showers can be intense at times, they are usually short-lived, leaving plenty of time to enjoy sunny spells between downpours.

Vanuatu receives around 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain in December. Despite being in the wettest period of the year, the rain often passes quickly, refreshing the air and landscapes before the sun returns.

Average Rainfall Across Vanuatu

• Efate (Port Vila) – The average rainfall in December is 215 mm (8.5 in)
• Espiritu Santo – The average rainfall in December is 244 mm (9.6 in)
• Malekula – The average rainfall in December is 238 mm (9.4 in)
• Tanna – The average rainfall in December is 200 mm (7.9 in)
• Banks Islands & Torres – The average rainfall in December is 248 mm (9.8 in)

If you need a rainy day backup for a couple of hours, check out the ideas in the 10 Things to Do in Vanuatu on a Rainy Day LINK#TTD064.

December falls within the official South Pacific cyclone season, which runs from November to April. While cyclones in Vanuatu are not guaranteed each year, the risk rises during this period due to warmer seas and humid tropical air.

Historically, Vanuatu has experienced several impactful cyclones in December, with strong winds, heavy rainfall, and occasional disruption to local infrastructure.

While direct hits are rare, it's wise to monitor local advisories and familiarise yourself with Cyclone Safety in Vanuatu.

If you're visiting Vanuatu in December, it’s wise to have travel insurance and a flexible itinerary, just in case a tropical cyclone develops during your trip.

December can be one of the busier months in Vanuatu, but the warm tropical weather and festive events make the islands especially inviting.

As the main hub, Efate and Port Vila LINK#D017 are lively in December, with local Christmas celebrations, such as "Krismas in the Park", typically taking place during the first week in December. It’s a great time to explore beaches, enjoy coastal hikes, or soak in the city’s vibrant culture while still finding peaceful spots along the shore.

See what Port Vila and Efate have to offer in our 30 Best Things to Do in Port Vila & Efate.

For a more secluded escape, islands like Tanna LINK#D071 and Malekula LINK#D035 offer quiet beaches, pristine coral reefs, and a chance to immerse yourself in authentic island life. These islands are perfect for travellers seeking relaxation away from the festive buzz of the main centres.

Can't choose between them? Use our The Best Islands & Provinces to Visit in Vanuatu guide to help you decide.

Be prepared for Vanuatu in December by packing these few seasonal essentials:

• High-factor reef-safe sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Light bamboo, linen or merino layers (we like the sustainable bamboo clothing of Moso Morrow)
• Light long-sleeved tops (to cover from sun and mosquitoes)
• Sarong for ladies to cover pants, shorts or swimwear, especially if visiting the outer islands
• Sunhat
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Rash vest (we like the UV-protecting Sharkskin rashies)
• Closed walking shoes
• Flip-flops/jandals/sandals
• Sarong for ladies to cover pants, shorts or swimwear, especially if visiting the outer islands
• A Christmas gift for the family you are staying with, if staying at a local bungalow, for example.

Get more ideas on what to pack with our guide, What to Pack for Vanuatu: Full Vanuatu Packing List.